How to Size a Military Sword/Saber

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I receive questions about how to properly size a sword or saber. Contrary to much of the information that is “out there”, the sword and saber blade length is not simply a function of a person’s height. The correct length is the blade length that will place the tip of the blade at approximately eye level when an individual carries …

Of Flags and Sharp Objects

DrillMasterAsk DrillMaster, Commentary, Honor Guard, Instructional 2 Comments

Please read All About The Color Guard for complete information on this subject. Can a color team use rifles with bayonets or even use swords or sabers? As the title suggests, flags and sharp objects do not go well together! Never ever, ever, ever put bayonets on rifles or march swords/sabers for a color team! When a color catches the …

Ask the DrillMaster: Saber Spinning

DrillMasterCommentary, Drill Teams, Instructional 1 Comment

Q: Can you spin a saber in a competition? A: No. Yes. No, most drill meets will not allow a cadet to spin a saber or sword since both have a relatively sharp edge and a point. Safety is a big concern here, understandably. And now for the “Yes” of the question. Yes! Spin a color guard saber! Marching band …

Drill Inside a Church?

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Can one drill inside a church? This question was posed to me specifically about an exhibition drill sword routine, but it applies to all weapons as well. Here is the guidance: You must seek the church leader (pastor, rabbi or priest) and see what he says. The thinking is a church is deemed a sanctuary and under the protection of …

The Spinnable Saber!

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What am I talking about? Well, in same competitions cadets are not allowed to let the sword or saber leave their hand- they cannot spin their chosen piece of drill equipment. Now, that has led to some creative work being done by a small handful of Drillers- which is an excellent thing! However, it also stifles other creativity. I have …

Sword Maintenace and Care

DrillMasterDrillCenter News, Instructional 6 Comments

While stationed in Germany from ’07-’10, I had the chance to visit WKC sword makers in Solingen, Germany. I never could coordinate a good time to stop by to say hello and meet some sword makers. They don’t give factory tours anymore since their processes were being stolen and (unsuccessfully) copied by other companies. This is their info for caring …